Shar Pei Pregnancy – The Full Guide

Shar Pei mom sitting, breastfeeding her puppies, isolated

Table of Contents

The average Shar Pei pregnancy lasts around 9 weeks, with most litters born between the 8th and 10th week. However, it is not unusual for a Shar Pei to go into labor as early as the 6th week or as late as the 12th week.

Litters of up to 12 puppies are not uncommon, though the average litter size is 6-8 puppies.

As with any other dog breed, some health risks are associated with Shar Pei pregnancies. One of the most common is dystocia when the puppies get stuck in the birth canal and cannot be delivered naturally.This can be a very dangerous situation for both mother and puppies and often requires emergency veterinary care.

Another common health concern during Shar Pei pregnancies is pyometra, a uterus infection. This can be a severe condition and even life-threatening if not treated promptly. If you are considering breeding your Shar Pei, you must talk to your veterinarian first. They can help you understand the risks involved and ensure you are prepared for everything that might happen.


Understanding the Unique Anatomy of Shar-Pei Puppies

Shar-Pei puppies, like the adults, have unique anatomical features that set them apart from other breeds. Notably, they have a characteristic wrinkled skin and a large, broad head. These features, while endearing, can sometimes complicate the birthing process. Their large heads, in particular, can make it difficult for the mother to deliver them naturally, leading to the risk of dystocia. Furthermore, the puppies’ loose skin might make them susceptible to certain skin conditions if not properly cared for. Therefore, it is crucial to understand these anatomical peculiarities if you plan to breed your Shar-Pei, as this knowledge will help you to better prepare for potential challenges during delivery and puppy care.

Why Shar-Peis Are Prone to Dystocia and Other Pregnancy Complications

Dystocia, a condition where a dog has difficulty giving birth, is relatively common among Shar-Peis, mainly due to the puppies’ large heads and the mother’s relatively narrow pelvis. This mismatch can lead to a situation where a puppy gets stuck in the birth canal, necessitating veterinary intervention to ensure the safety of both the mother and her litter. Apart from dystocia, Shar-Peis may also be at risk for other pregnancy complications such as pyometra, a severe infection of the uterus that can be life-threatening if not promptly treated. Regular vet check-ups throughout the pregnancy are crucial to detect and manage such complications early.

What to Expect from a Pregnant Shar-Pei: Behavioral Changes

As with all dogs, pregnant Shar-Peis may exhibit certain behavioral changes. They may become more affectionate or, conversely, more withdrawn. Some dogs might experience morning sickness, similar to humans, and this could result in decreased appetite or occasional vomiting. Other signs may include nesting behavior, where the mother-to-be starts preparing a spot for her impending litter. Understanding these behaviors can help you provide better care for your pregnant Shar-Pei and prepare for the arrival of the puppies.

Preventing and Treating Pyometra in Shar-Peis

Pyometra is a severe infection of the uterus that can occur in dogs, including Shar-Peis. It often develops after a dog’s heat cycle, when hormonal changes make the uterus more susceptible to infection. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, and vaginal discharge. This condition is a veterinary emergency and requires immediate attention. If left untreated, it can be fatal. Prevention is always the best approach and spaying your Shar-Pei is the most effective way to prevent pyometra. However, if your Shar-Pei is intended for breeding, regular vet checks and prompt attention to any post-heat cycle changes can help catch the condition early and initiate immediate treatment.

How to Care for a Shar-Pei After Giving Birth

Caring for a Shar-Pei after giving birth involves ensuring she is comfortable, well-nourished, and free from any postpartum complications. It’s crucial to provide a quiet, warm, and safe place for the mother and her puppies. The mother will need plenty of fresh water and high-quality food to help her recover from the birthing process and produce enough milk for her litter. Regular check-ups with the vet are also essential to monitor for any signs of infection or other complications. It’s important to remember that while the mother will do most of the care for the newborn puppies, you need to monitor and ensure that all the puppies are feeding and growing properly.

Recognizing Signs of Distress in Shar-Pei During Labor

Recognizing signs of distress in your Shar-Pei during labor can mean the difference between life and death for both the mother and her puppies

. The process of labor is strenuous and can sometimes lead to complications. It’s essential to be vigilant and watch for signs such as prolonged labor (more than 2 hours without delivering a puppy), bloody or green discharge without a puppy being delivered, constant straining without producing a puppy, obvious signs of pain, or lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s vital to contact your vet immediately. Rapid intervention can often prevent a challenging situation from becoming a dangerous one.

The Importance of Postnatal Care for Shar-Pei Puppies

Postnatal care for Shar-Pei puppies is crucial to ensure they get a good start in life. This involves regular monitoring of the puppies to ensure they are nursing properly and gaining weight. Their environment should be kept warm and clean to prevent infections. At around two weeks old, when their eyes and ears open, they should be gradually introduced to various sounds, textures, and light levels to stimulate their development. At this stage, it’s also important to begin socializing them by handling them gently and regularly. Regular vet check-ups in these early weeks are essential to monitor their growth, deworm them, and start their vaccination schedules.

Breeding Shar-Peis: Essential Tips for First-time Breeders

Breeding Shar-Peis requires a good understanding of the breed and its specific needs. Firstly, it’s important to ensure that both the mother and father are of good health and have been screened for any hereditary diseases common in the breed. Once the female is pregnant, she should be provided with a balanced diet and regular vet check-ups to monitor the progress of the pregnancy. Be prepared for the possibility of needing a Cesarean section due to the breed’s predisposition to dystocia. Post-birth, ensure the mother is comfortable and well-fed, and the puppies are thriving. And remember, breeding should always be undertaken with the aim of improving the breed and providing loving homes for the puppies.

Preparing Your Home for a Shar-Pei Litter

Preparing your home for a Shar-Pei litter requires creating a safe, quiet, and comfortable space for the mother to give birth and raise her puppies. A whelping box is often a good choice, providing a confined space that keeps the puppies contained and prevents them from wandering away from their mother while they’re still very young. Make sure the area is warm, as puppies can’t regulate their body temperature for the first few weeks. It’s also essential to puppy-proof your home as the puppies grow and begin to explore their environment. This includes removing any small or sharp objects they could swallow or injure themselves on, and blocking off any dangerous areas.

Long-term Health Considerations for Breeding Shar-Peis

Breeding Shar-Peis is not a decision to be taken lightly. The breed has a higher than average predisposition for certain health problems, some of which can be hereditary. These include skin issues related to their characteristic wrinkles, as well as eye conditions like entropion, and hip dysplasia. Regular health screenings and choosing healthy parents with good genetic backgrounds can help mitigate these risks. Furthermore, if you decide to breed your Shar-Pei, you should be committed to caring for any puppies that you can’t find homes for, as well as taking responsibility for any potential future health issues they may have.

How to Socialize Newborn Shar-Pei Puppies

Socializing newborn Shar-Pei puppies is a critical part of their early development and sets the foundation for their behavior as adults. It should start from around two weeks old, once their eyes and ears are open. Initial socialization involves gentle handling of the puppies and exposure to a variety of different environments, textures, sounds, and people. As they grow

, the socialization process should continue to expand. After they’ve had their vaccinations, they can be introduced to other vaccinated dogs and different environments outside the home. Introduce them to various people of different ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds to help them grow into well-adjusted, tolerant dogs. Also, exposure to different experiences like car rides, different surfaces, or even the sounds of household appliances can be beneficial. Remember, the key is to ensure these experiences are positive, not overwhelming, to foster curiosity rather than fear.

Diet and Nutrition Needs for Pregnant and Nursing Shar-Peis

A pregnant Shar-Pei has increased nutritional needs to support the growth and development of her puppies. She should be fed a high-quality, balanced dog food that’s high in protein. Some breeders recommend switching to a diet formulated for puppies, as it has higher nutrient levels suited to the mother’s increased needs. As her pregnancy progresses, her food intake should increase, sometimes up to twice the amount she would normally eat. After giving birth, a nursing Shar-Pei will also require additional nutrition to support milk production. Always ensure she has access to plenty of fresh water, especially when nursing. As always, any changes in diet should be discussed with a vet to ensure it meets all necessary nutritional requirements.

What Is the Average Litter of a Shar Pei?

The average litter size for a Shar Pei is six puppies. However, litter sizes can range from one to twelve puppies.

Litters of ten or more puppies are considered large and may require assistance from the breeder or veterinarian during delivery. 

Shar Peis typically have two heat cycles per year, lasting approximately three weeks. The first is between six and nine months old, while the second occurs between twelve and fifteen months old. 

Some Shar Peis may continue to have heat cycles into their senior years, although this is less common.

If you are planning to breed your Shar Pei, consult with a veterinarian to ensure she is healthy enough to carry puppies.

What 2 Breeds Make a Shar-Pei?

The Shar-Pei is a Chinese breed of dog known for its deep wrinkles and blue-black tongue. The breed comes in two varieties, the horse coat, and the brush coat.

The horse-coat variety is the more popular of the two and is the only one recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Shar-Peis are loyal, independent dogs that make great watchdogs but can be aloof with strangers. They are intelligent and learn quickly, but they can also be headstrong and stubborn.

Shar-Peis needs firm, consistent training and socialization from an early age to prevent them from becoming aggressive.

The Shar-Pei is considered one of the oldest breeds of dogs, dating back to the Han Dynasty in China (206 BC – 220 AD).

The breed was originally used for hunting and guarding but fell out of favor when the Chinese government banned dog ownership in 1959.

The Shar-Pei was reintroduced to the West in the 1970s and became popular in the United States in the 1980s. They are still relatively rare today, but their popularity has been steadily increasing in recent years.

How Long Does the First Stage of Shar-Pei Labor Last?

The first stage of labor in a Shar-Pei can last for several hours or even days. However, the average length of time for this stage is between 12 and 24 hours.

During this time, the female’s cervix will begin to dilate, and she will start to experience contractions. She may also vomit during this time.

How Can You Tell How Far Along a Pregnant Shar-Pei Is?

There are several ways to tell how far along a pregnant Shar-Pei is. One way is to take her temperature regularly.

A female’s temperature will drop below 100°F (38°C) about 24 hours before she goes into labor. Another way to tell how far along a pregnant Shar-Pei is is by feeling her abdomen.

As the female gets closer to her due date, her abdomen will become smaller and harder as the puppies move into position for birth.

Finally, a blood test can be done to measure relaxin levels, a hormone produced in late pregnancy.

What Are the Stages of Shar-Pei Labor?

The stages of Shar-Pei labor are similar to those of other dogs. The first stage is the longest and can last for several hours or even days.

During this time, the female’s cervix will begin to dilate, and she will start to experience contractions. 

The second stage of labor begins when the bitch’s water breaks and ends when the first puppy is born. The third and final stage of labor is the delivery of the placenta.

How Many Puppies Do Shar-Peis Usually Have?

Shar-Peis usually have six to eight puppies, but litter sizes can range from two to twelve. In addition,  Shar-Peis often have large heads and broad chests, making delivery difficult.

For this reason, it is crucial to have a veterinarian present during the birth in case of complications.

More Category Information

Mozzie Kellerman

Mozzie Kellerman

We all love our wrinkled bundle of joy! So I decided to share everything that I know about Shar Pei from what I've researched before we got Ronnie (our dog) and from our experience with her for the past couple of years.

About Me

We all love our wrinkled bundle of joy! So I decided to share everything that I know about Shar Pei from what I’ve researched before we got Ronnie (our dog) and from our experience with her for the past couple of years.

Recent Posts